While only one in 10 Japanese say they support whaling against a slightly higher number who oppose it, nearly 40 percent appear uncommitted, according to a survey released by environmentalist groups this week.
It also shows that more than 60 percent have not eaten whale meat since childhood, if at all.
The survey, jointly conducted via face-to-face interviews by the International Fund for Animal Welfare and Greenpeace International between November and December last year, covered 1,185 people aged 18 and above across Japan. The IFAW is a U.S.-based organization promoting and attempting to ensure the just and kind treatment of animals.